Mindsets of change agents for development: a case study of the Sundays River Valley, Eastern Cape
- Bezuidenhout, Theo Gerhardus
- Authors: Bezuidenhout, Theo Gerhardus
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Social change , Sustainable development -- South Africa , Well-being , Economic development -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64874 , vital:73937
- Description: Societal development in underdeveloped areas is a process of enhancing and improving the quality of life in communities, with a focus on meeting their social, economic, environmental, and political needs. Despite ideological efforts and growing interest in movements, mobilisations and communities promoting social change, little research has been done on the mindsets of change agents. Margaret Archer’s (1988), Morphogenetic Approach to social development has been used in this case as a theoretical framework emphasising that social change and development occur through interactions between individuals and their social environments. This approach focusses on the importance of feedback loops, where changes in the environment and the reactions of individuals to these changes both influence and are influenced by one another. Through reflective learning, semistructured interviews and document analysis, the dissertation explored research questions concerning different perspectives of change agents in the Sundays River Valley. The theories examined provide options of theoretical frameworks which can be used to assess and evaluate the work and role of change agents to participate in societal development. This is important in the Sundays River Valley context as, up to now, there has been no shortage or lack of development plans and policies for the area. Rather, what has been absent is the theoretical frameworks to provide the context and meaning for change agents to participate in societal development and occupy their role in the various development plans and policies. Collaborative development and participation acknowledge that solving complex social problems requires the efforts of multiple organisations, individuals, and generations. To enable societal development requires social trust and cooperation of multiple stakeholders, including government, community members, businesses, development agencies, non-governmental organisations and educational institutions. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism , 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Bezuidenhout, Theo Gerhardus
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Social change , Sustainable development -- South Africa , Well-being , Economic development -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64874 , vital:73937
- Description: Societal development in underdeveloped areas is a process of enhancing and improving the quality of life in communities, with a focus on meeting their social, economic, environmental, and political needs. Despite ideological efforts and growing interest in movements, mobilisations and communities promoting social change, little research has been done on the mindsets of change agents. Margaret Archer’s (1988), Morphogenetic Approach to social development has been used in this case as a theoretical framework emphasising that social change and development occur through interactions between individuals and their social environments. This approach focusses on the importance of feedback loops, where changes in the environment and the reactions of individuals to these changes both influence and are influenced by one another. Through reflective learning, semistructured interviews and document analysis, the dissertation explored research questions concerning different perspectives of change agents in the Sundays River Valley. The theories examined provide options of theoretical frameworks which can be used to assess and evaluate the work and role of change agents to participate in societal development. This is important in the Sundays River Valley context as, up to now, there has been no shortage or lack of development plans and policies for the area. Rather, what has been absent is the theoretical frameworks to provide the context and meaning for change agents to participate in societal development and occupy their role in the various development plans and policies. Collaborative development and participation acknowledge that solving complex social problems requires the efforts of multiple organisations, individuals, and generations. To enable societal development requires social trust and cooperation of multiple stakeholders, including government, community members, businesses, development agencies, non-governmental organisations and educational institutions. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism , 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Minimum sentencing disparities in the criminal justice system
- Authors: Minnaar, Evolia Geraldine
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Sentences (Criminal procedure) , Sentencing disparities , Criminal Law Amendment Act
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66229 , vital:74444
- Description: In South Africa, judicial officers have wide discretionary authority with regard to both the type of and the severity of the sentence. Sentencing is a particularly challenging part of the criminal justice process. It is challenging, because South Africa's sentencing system does not have uniform sentencing guidelines that can assist presiding officers in exercising their judicial discretion in the sentencing process. Nor does South Africa have a Sentencing Council to establish sentencing guidelines. Parliament adopted the Criminal Law Amendment Act, which provides for mandatory minimum sentences for certain serious and violent offences. One of the legislation's intended objectives was to advance consistency and avoid disparities in sentencing. The legislation has limited, but not eliminated the court's discretion. A deviation or an escape clause is provided to sentencing courts to depart from the prescribed minimum sentence. If a sentencing court is satisfied that substantial and compelling circumstances exist, departure is justified and a lesser sentence should be imposed. Legislature does not define the phrase "substantial and compelling circumstances". Nor does legislature provide guidance, regarding what the phrase constitutes and does not constitute. Thus, courts have to exercise their judicial discretion when imposing sentences. When interpreting the phrase substantial and compelling circumstances, the courts generally consider that the legislature prescribed minimum sentences as the sentences that should ordinarily be imposed for serious offences. The courts further consider that the legislature aimed to ensure a severe, standardised and consistent response from the courts. Thus, courts should not depart from the prescribed minimum sentence for lightly and flimsy reasons. Further, the traditional mitigating and aggravating factors should still be considered in sentencing. Additionally, if the court considers that the prescribed sentence will be unjust, the court has to depart from the prescribed sentence and impose a lesser sentence. The courts, however, interpret the abovementioned principles inconsistently. This is attributed to the legislature's failure to provide clear, uniform and adequate guidelines to the courts. Disparities in sentencing still permeate South Africa's sentencing system, which creates a challenge to achieve consistency in sentencing. The conclusion of this research is that there is still dissatisfaction with sentencing among the public and sentenced prisoners. Another conclusion of this research is that the legislation has exacerbated prison overcrowding. A further conclusion in this research is that the legislation has not achieved one of its fundamental objectives, namely advancing consistency and avoiding disparities in sentencing. Comparative research is also done in order to see how South Africa's system can be developed and/or improved. , Thesis (LMM) -- Faculty of Law, Department of Criminal and Procedural Law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Minnaar, Evolia Geraldine
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Sentences (Criminal procedure) , Sentencing disparities , Criminal Law Amendment Act
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66229 , vital:74444
- Description: In South Africa, judicial officers have wide discretionary authority with regard to both the type of and the severity of the sentence. Sentencing is a particularly challenging part of the criminal justice process. It is challenging, because South Africa's sentencing system does not have uniform sentencing guidelines that can assist presiding officers in exercising their judicial discretion in the sentencing process. Nor does South Africa have a Sentencing Council to establish sentencing guidelines. Parliament adopted the Criminal Law Amendment Act, which provides for mandatory minimum sentences for certain serious and violent offences. One of the legislation's intended objectives was to advance consistency and avoid disparities in sentencing. The legislation has limited, but not eliminated the court's discretion. A deviation or an escape clause is provided to sentencing courts to depart from the prescribed minimum sentence. If a sentencing court is satisfied that substantial and compelling circumstances exist, departure is justified and a lesser sentence should be imposed. Legislature does not define the phrase "substantial and compelling circumstances". Nor does legislature provide guidance, regarding what the phrase constitutes and does not constitute. Thus, courts have to exercise their judicial discretion when imposing sentences. When interpreting the phrase substantial and compelling circumstances, the courts generally consider that the legislature prescribed minimum sentences as the sentences that should ordinarily be imposed for serious offences. The courts further consider that the legislature aimed to ensure a severe, standardised and consistent response from the courts. Thus, courts should not depart from the prescribed minimum sentence for lightly and flimsy reasons. Further, the traditional mitigating and aggravating factors should still be considered in sentencing. Additionally, if the court considers that the prescribed sentence will be unjust, the court has to depart from the prescribed sentence and impose a lesser sentence. The courts, however, interpret the abovementioned principles inconsistently. This is attributed to the legislature's failure to provide clear, uniform and adequate guidelines to the courts. Disparities in sentencing still permeate South Africa's sentencing system, which creates a challenge to achieve consistency in sentencing. The conclusion of this research is that there is still dissatisfaction with sentencing among the public and sentenced prisoners. Another conclusion of this research is that the legislation has exacerbated prison overcrowding. A further conclusion in this research is that the legislation has not achieved one of its fundamental objectives, namely advancing consistency and avoiding disparities in sentencing. Comparative research is also done in order to see how South Africa's system can be developed and/or improved. , Thesis (LMM) -- Faculty of Law, Department of Criminal and Procedural Law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Modelling offsite construction to control hazards and direct cost of accidents
- Simukonda, Wakisa Tulombolombo
- Authors: Simukonda, Wakisa Tulombolombo
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Accidents , Construction industry -- Risk management , Building -- Safety measures
- Language: English
- Type: Doctotal theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64818 , vital:73923
- Description: The construction industry contributes significantly to the growth of developed and emerging economies. The industry contributes a sizeable proportion of Gross Domestic Product and Gross National Product. However, the poor safety performance of the industry and its consequential socio-economic impact threatens the industry’s significant contributions. It is for this reason that off-site construction has been identified as a sine qua non for addressing poor safety performance. The application of design for manufacture and assembly and lean techniques in the manufacture and assembly processes of off-site construction is suggested to minimise safety hazards in construction. The research was conducted to establish the relevant design for manufacture and assembly and lean techniques for addressing safety hazards in off-site construction and to develop a conceptual model of off-site construction for controlling hazards and direct costs of accidents to protect people and profits in construction. A preliminary conceptual model of off-site construction was initially devised based on a literature review and later refined into a developed conceptual model of off-site construction using findings from the qualitative phase of the study. The confirmation of the relationships and concepts presented in the developed conceptual model of off-site construction was based on the findings from quantitative data. The quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 26. Within SPSS, descriptive and inferential statistics were used to examine the relationships between off-site construction methods and safety issues, while Cronbach’s alpha was used to measure the validity of the findings. Based on the findings of the study, significant safety benefits of off-site construction methods of design for manufacture and assembly and lean techniques were identified. The benefits relate to the elimination of safety hazards including lack of personal protective equipment, work at height, poor work methods, poor house-keeping and lack of training and experience. Furthermore, the research findings indicated that implementing design for manufacture and assembly and lean practices limits direct costs of accidents, including costs expended on wages and medical bills. The positive outcomes of applying design for manufacture and assembly and lean techniques include better project management and working conditions, improved quality, minimised construction waste, and increased productivity. Factors impeding application of design for manufacture and assembly and lean techniques within contracting organisations include lack of stakeholder collaboration, a conservative mind-set towards traditional construction, lack of preferential policies and expensive logistics. These challenges can be addressed by promoting awareness of off-site construction methods, capacity-building, establishing a robust local supply chain and the involvement of government in creating an enabling political and legal environment, among others. Based on the research, an integrated conceptual model of off-site construction was developed for using off-site construction to control hazards and direct costs of accidents to protect people and profits in construction. In essence, the model can be used to identify design for manufacture and assembly and lean practices applicable in off-site construction projects to control potential safety hazards and risks. Identification and application of appropriate design for manufacture and assembly and lean practices, while addressing safety challenges, would result in the elimination of safety hazards and direct costs associated with the occurrence of accidents. Consequently, prevention of accidents would ensure the safety and health of people in construction, while the reduction of direct costs of accidents would improve the profitability margins of contracting organisations. Based on the study, recommendations are made for wider adoption of off-site construction as a modern construction method, and application of design for manufacture and assembly and lean techniques in off-site construction as strategic, industry and national, initiatives for improving safety in the construction industry. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty ofEngineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Simukonda, Wakisa Tulombolombo
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Accidents , Construction industry -- Risk management , Building -- Safety measures
- Language: English
- Type: Doctotal theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64818 , vital:73923
- Description: The construction industry contributes significantly to the growth of developed and emerging economies. The industry contributes a sizeable proportion of Gross Domestic Product and Gross National Product. However, the poor safety performance of the industry and its consequential socio-economic impact threatens the industry’s significant contributions. It is for this reason that off-site construction has been identified as a sine qua non for addressing poor safety performance. The application of design for manufacture and assembly and lean techniques in the manufacture and assembly processes of off-site construction is suggested to minimise safety hazards in construction. The research was conducted to establish the relevant design for manufacture and assembly and lean techniques for addressing safety hazards in off-site construction and to develop a conceptual model of off-site construction for controlling hazards and direct costs of accidents to protect people and profits in construction. A preliminary conceptual model of off-site construction was initially devised based on a literature review and later refined into a developed conceptual model of off-site construction using findings from the qualitative phase of the study. The confirmation of the relationships and concepts presented in the developed conceptual model of off-site construction was based on the findings from quantitative data. The quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 26. Within SPSS, descriptive and inferential statistics were used to examine the relationships between off-site construction methods and safety issues, while Cronbach’s alpha was used to measure the validity of the findings. Based on the findings of the study, significant safety benefits of off-site construction methods of design for manufacture and assembly and lean techniques were identified. The benefits relate to the elimination of safety hazards including lack of personal protective equipment, work at height, poor work methods, poor house-keeping and lack of training and experience. Furthermore, the research findings indicated that implementing design for manufacture and assembly and lean practices limits direct costs of accidents, including costs expended on wages and medical bills. The positive outcomes of applying design for manufacture and assembly and lean techniques include better project management and working conditions, improved quality, minimised construction waste, and increased productivity. Factors impeding application of design for manufacture and assembly and lean techniques within contracting organisations include lack of stakeholder collaboration, a conservative mind-set towards traditional construction, lack of preferential policies and expensive logistics. These challenges can be addressed by promoting awareness of off-site construction methods, capacity-building, establishing a robust local supply chain and the involvement of government in creating an enabling political and legal environment, among others. Based on the research, an integrated conceptual model of off-site construction was developed for using off-site construction to control hazards and direct costs of accidents to protect people and profits in construction. In essence, the model can be used to identify design for manufacture and assembly and lean practices applicable in off-site construction projects to control potential safety hazards and risks. Identification and application of appropriate design for manufacture and assembly and lean practices, while addressing safety challenges, would result in the elimination of safety hazards and direct costs associated with the occurrence of accidents. Consequently, prevention of accidents would ensure the safety and health of people in construction, while the reduction of direct costs of accidents would improve the profitability margins of contracting organisations. Based on the study, recommendations are made for wider adoption of off-site construction as a modern construction method, and application of design for manufacture and assembly and lean techniques in off-site construction as strategic, industry and national, initiatives for improving safety in the construction industry. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty ofEngineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Multi-purpose community centres as catalysts for socio-economic development in Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Gobe, Cynthia Bongiwe Ntombikayise
- Authors: Gobe, Cynthia Bongiwe Ntombikayise
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Community centers -- South Africa , Buildings -- Environmental engineering -- South Africa , Sustainable construction -- Economic aspects , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64533 , vital:73747
- Description: The central issue facing African society, especially underdeveloped countries is that most of the population lives below the poverty line, experiences high levels of unemployment and unsustainable livelihoods. The poor and marginalised groups in many communities are deprived access to infrastructure and socio-economic amenities, this includes accessibility to government services, information, and developmental opportunities. The development of Multi-purpose Community Centres (MPCCs) is viewed as a value-adding solution to several challenges facing unequal societies, such as inadequate infrastructure, remote settlement patterns, poor access to basic services, poor access to technology, poor access to information, increased unemployment rate, increased poverty rate, and many others. The study examines the socio-economic impact of MPCCs on municipalities of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa and explores how these centres, as built environment outputs can become a stimulus for sustainable livelihoods in urban, rural, and peri-urban human settlements, including informal settlements. The study falls under implementation evaluation research methodologies which assesses whether a programme has been adequately implemented before making inference on its effectiveness. Anchored in a Social Constructivism knowledge paradigm and leaning on a Systems and Development Theories, the study adopted a Mixed Method Research approach. In view of the data required document reviews, field observations, interviews and questionnaire surveys were employed. The research findings revealed that despite the delivery of MPCCs by the Department of Human Settlements, these centers have not provided much socio-economic opportunities to members of the communities where they are built. The MPCCs under study are facing many challenges that render them ineffective to fulfill their mandate of improving the lives of residents. The study yielded an inclusive and responsive human settlements development model for the creation of well-functioning socio-economic impactful MPCCs within existing and forth-coming housing projects and informal settlements. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Gobe, Cynthia Bongiwe Ntombikayise
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Community centers -- South Africa , Buildings -- Environmental engineering -- South Africa , Sustainable construction -- Economic aspects , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64533 , vital:73747
- Description: The central issue facing African society, especially underdeveloped countries is that most of the population lives below the poverty line, experiences high levels of unemployment and unsustainable livelihoods. The poor and marginalised groups in many communities are deprived access to infrastructure and socio-economic amenities, this includes accessibility to government services, information, and developmental opportunities. The development of Multi-purpose Community Centres (MPCCs) is viewed as a value-adding solution to several challenges facing unequal societies, such as inadequate infrastructure, remote settlement patterns, poor access to basic services, poor access to technology, poor access to information, increased unemployment rate, increased poverty rate, and many others. The study examines the socio-economic impact of MPCCs on municipalities of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa and explores how these centres, as built environment outputs can become a stimulus for sustainable livelihoods in urban, rural, and peri-urban human settlements, including informal settlements. The study falls under implementation evaluation research methodologies which assesses whether a programme has been adequately implemented before making inference on its effectiveness. Anchored in a Social Constructivism knowledge paradigm and leaning on a Systems and Development Theories, the study adopted a Mixed Method Research approach. In view of the data required document reviews, field observations, interviews and questionnaire surveys were employed. The research findings revealed that despite the delivery of MPCCs by the Department of Human Settlements, these centers have not provided much socio-economic opportunities to members of the communities where they are built. The MPCCs under study are facing many challenges that render them ineffective to fulfill their mandate of improving the lives of residents. The study yielded an inclusive and responsive human settlements development model for the creation of well-functioning socio-economic impactful MPCCs within existing and forth-coming housing projects and informal settlements. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Numerical modelling of power law constants established through impression and micro-Uniaxial creep methods for service exposed A234WPB steel
- Authors: Tembo, Blessed
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Number theory , Numerical analysis , Mechanical engineering
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64852 , vital:73931
- Description: Continuous monitoring of creep life in materials operating at high temperatures and pressures is imperative to prevent catastrophic failures and ensure timely replacement of worn-out components in industrial plants. Small-scale creep testing methodologies offer a valuable means of assessing material creep life while preserving structural integrity. Motivated by the need for reliable methods in creep life assessment, this study aimed to investigate the creep properties of A234WPB material subjected to service conditions using Impression creep and micro-uniaxial creep testing techniques. The research questions focused on establishing power law constants through small-scale creep testing, validating these constants using numerical modelling, and assessing their practical implementation in predicting material creep life. Samples extracted from service-exposed A234WPB steel alloy underwent step-load impression creep tests and step-temperature micro-uniaxial creep tests to derive the power law creep equation. The determined stress exponent of 3.967 indicated that dislocation creep was the dominant creep-controlling mechanism at 520 °C. A numerical model, utilizing the established power law constants, demonstrated a strong correlation with experimental findings in steady-state creep rates. Furthermore, the conventional Monkman-Grant approach was employed to predict the remaining life of the service-exposed material using impression creep data. The predicted remaining life aligned with the scatter band of uniaxial rupture life on a Larson-Miller plot, highlighting the practical utility of impression creep and micro-uniaxial creep testing techniques in assessing creep life. This study contributes to the advancement of small-scale creep testing methods and underscores their potential for practical implementation in industrial settings, thereby enhancing the reliability and safety of high-temperature and high-pressure operations. , Thesis (MEng) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Tembo, Blessed
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Number theory , Numerical analysis , Mechanical engineering
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64852 , vital:73931
- Description: Continuous monitoring of creep life in materials operating at high temperatures and pressures is imperative to prevent catastrophic failures and ensure timely replacement of worn-out components in industrial plants. Small-scale creep testing methodologies offer a valuable means of assessing material creep life while preserving structural integrity. Motivated by the need for reliable methods in creep life assessment, this study aimed to investigate the creep properties of A234WPB material subjected to service conditions using Impression creep and micro-uniaxial creep testing techniques. The research questions focused on establishing power law constants through small-scale creep testing, validating these constants using numerical modelling, and assessing their practical implementation in predicting material creep life. Samples extracted from service-exposed A234WPB steel alloy underwent step-load impression creep tests and step-temperature micro-uniaxial creep tests to derive the power law creep equation. The determined stress exponent of 3.967 indicated that dislocation creep was the dominant creep-controlling mechanism at 520 °C. A numerical model, utilizing the established power law constants, demonstrated a strong correlation with experimental findings in steady-state creep rates. Furthermore, the conventional Monkman-Grant approach was employed to predict the remaining life of the service-exposed material using impression creep data. The predicted remaining life aligned with the scatter band of uniaxial rupture life on a Larson-Miller plot, highlighting the practical utility of impression creep and micro-uniaxial creep testing techniques in assessing creep life. This study contributes to the advancement of small-scale creep testing methods and underscores their potential for practical implementation in industrial settings, thereby enhancing the reliability and safety of high-temperature and high-pressure operations. , Thesis (MEng) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Optimisation of laser welding for thin-walled Ti6Al4V glider pressure hull
- Authors: Nel, Matthew Ryan
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Laser welding , Welding , Mechanical engineering
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64739 , vital:73882
- Description: Laser welding is a type of fusion welding process characterised by deep penetration, low heat input and high welding speed. This dissertation investigates the suitability of this process for the fabrication of an underwater glider buoyancy engine from thin Ti6Al4V alloy sheet. Areas of interest include the effect of process parameters on weld microstructure, static properties (microhardness, tensile and bend tests) and dynamic properties (fatigue tests). The effect of welding speed and laser defocusing were evaluated considering experimental matrices consisting of four different travel speeds and three defocus distances. These were narrowed down to three travel speeds and a single defocus distance, resulting in a final test matrix delivering three different heat inputs. Thereafter, the effect of heat input on static and dynamic properties was investigated. Vickers microhardness tests were carried out to predict weld response during tensile testing, with the expectation being that harder welds would offload more strain. This was confirmed using digital image correlation, which allowed for virtual measurement and visualisation of strain offloading. Bend tests were carried out on parent and welded samples to confirm whether Ti6Al4V could be formed to the correct geometry. Forming Ti6Al4V into a U-shape was the first consideration, since dynamic testing required samples of this geometry with longitudinal weld orientation. A two-stage forming methodology was developed from these experiments. Formed samples were subjected to fatigue tests in a custom designed fatigue platform for testing weld orientation as it would appear in the final component. Prediction of the welded buoyancy engine life was the goal behind these tests. Fracture surfaces were analysed to gain understanding of where crack initiation and final fracture occurred. Porosity served as the primary cause for crack initiation in failed samples. Pore distribution was heaviest in low-heat weldments and decreased with increasing heat input, while pore size increased with increasing heat input. This resulted in medium-heat weldments exhibiting superior performance to that of low- and high-heat ones. It was concluded that the laser welding process is able to produce weldments of sufficient integrity in thin Ti6Al4V sheet-formed components intended for use in glider buoyancy engines. , Thesis (MEng) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Nel, Matthew Ryan
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Laser welding , Welding , Mechanical engineering
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64739 , vital:73882
- Description: Laser welding is a type of fusion welding process characterised by deep penetration, low heat input and high welding speed. This dissertation investigates the suitability of this process for the fabrication of an underwater glider buoyancy engine from thin Ti6Al4V alloy sheet. Areas of interest include the effect of process parameters on weld microstructure, static properties (microhardness, tensile and bend tests) and dynamic properties (fatigue tests). The effect of welding speed and laser defocusing were evaluated considering experimental matrices consisting of four different travel speeds and three defocus distances. These were narrowed down to three travel speeds and a single defocus distance, resulting in a final test matrix delivering three different heat inputs. Thereafter, the effect of heat input on static and dynamic properties was investigated. Vickers microhardness tests were carried out to predict weld response during tensile testing, with the expectation being that harder welds would offload more strain. This was confirmed using digital image correlation, which allowed for virtual measurement and visualisation of strain offloading. Bend tests were carried out on parent and welded samples to confirm whether Ti6Al4V could be formed to the correct geometry. Forming Ti6Al4V into a U-shape was the first consideration, since dynamic testing required samples of this geometry with longitudinal weld orientation. A two-stage forming methodology was developed from these experiments. Formed samples were subjected to fatigue tests in a custom designed fatigue platform for testing weld orientation as it would appear in the final component. Prediction of the welded buoyancy engine life was the goal behind these tests. Fracture surfaces were analysed to gain understanding of where crack initiation and final fracture occurred. Porosity served as the primary cause for crack initiation in failed samples. Pore distribution was heaviest in low-heat weldments and decreased with increasing heat input, while pore size increased with increasing heat input. This resulted in medium-heat weldments exhibiting superior performance to that of low- and high-heat ones. It was concluded that the laser welding process is able to produce weldments of sufficient integrity in thin Ti6Al4V sheet-formed components intended for use in glider buoyancy engines. , Thesis (MEng) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Optimisation techniques to improve the drive efficiency of a mobile ventilator platform
- Authors: Imran, Mohammed Zaahid
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Artificial respiration , Respirators (Medical equipment) , Topology , Medical instruments and apparatus -- Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64555 , vital:73749
- Description: COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the indispensable role of mechanical ventilators in providing critical respiratory support to patients. This research has focused on the imperative task of optimising the articulation system of the ventilator, designed to enhance its efficiency, with particular emphasis on improving the volume displacement from the ambu bag. Several optimisation methods were explored, including generative design (GD), Design of Experiments (DOE), Shape optimisation, and topology optimisation. The study also highlights the significance of additive manufacturing and material testing in developing ventilator components. The study delves into the intricate development and fine-tuning of the ventilator setup, emphasising its pivotal role in delivering life-sustaining respiratory aid. The ventilator’s core mechanisms, featuring a two-pusher arm system powered by a servo motor, was engineered intricately to apply precise pressure on the ambu bag. The research underscores the importance of optimising both the pusher arm and pressure plates to improve air displacement within the system. A significant challenge addressed in this research was the excessive strain on the servo motor owing to the demands of the articulation system. The research employed strategies such as shape optimisation and topology optimisation to reduce the stress on the articulation system while increasing the air displacement and thus reducing the pusher arm displacement on the ventilator. The research methodology included stages such as setting performance benchmarks, calibration, and verification to ensure precision and reliability; shape optimisation for maximum efficiency; and topology optimisation for superior structural performance and reduced weight. These interconnected stages were instrumental in the comprehensive development and enhancement of the ventilator system, ensuring its effectiveness and dependability in delivering lifesaving respiratory support.This research extensively examined sensor reliability and performance through verification tests and calibrations, highlighting the precision of the servo motor and the suitability of the 5-Amps current sensor for monitoring servo motor current without additional calibration. Optimisation efforts aimed to enhance the ventilators performance by relocating the pusher arm to the bag’s centre, resulting in improved volume displacement efficiency by 7.78 % and a 25.35 % reduction in current consumption. Shape optimisation, especially with curvature-based pressure plates, increased volume displacement by 84.47 % reaching an optimal configuration outputting 1475.73 ml of volume per compression. Understanding the forces through strain gauges and FEA facilitated topology optimisation, the MAXSTIFFDS15 configuration demonstrated promising results by reducing component weight and achieving significant energy savings of 45.04 %, potentially reducing long-term costs. , Thesis (MEng) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Imran, Mohammed Zaahid
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Artificial respiration , Respirators (Medical equipment) , Topology , Medical instruments and apparatus -- Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64555 , vital:73749
- Description: COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the indispensable role of mechanical ventilators in providing critical respiratory support to patients. This research has focused on the imperative task of optimising the articulation system of the ventilator, designed to enhance its efficiency, with particular emphasis on improving the volume displacement from the ambu bag. Several optimisation methods were explored, including generative design (GD), Design of Experiments (DOE), Shape optimisation, and topology optimisation. The study also highlights the significance of additive manufacturing and material testing in developing ventilator components. The study delves into the intricate development and fine-tuning of the ventilator setup, emphasising its pivotal role in delivering life-sustaining respiratory aid. The ventilator’s core mechanisms, featuring a two-pusher arm system powered by a servo motor, was engineered intricately to apply precise pressure on the ambu bag. The research underscores the importance of optimising both the pusher arm and pressure plates to improve air displacement within the system. A significant challenge addressed in this research was the excessive strain on the servo motor owing to the demands of the articulation system. The research employed strategies such as shape optimisation and topology optimisation to reduce the stress on the articulation system while increasing the air displacement and thus reducing the pusher arm displacement on the ventilator. The research methodology included stages such as setting performance benchmarks, calibration, and verification to ensure precision and reliability; shape optimisation for maximum efficiency; and topology optimisation for superior structural performance and reduced weight. These interconnected stages were instrumental in the comprehensive development and enhancement of the ventilator system, ensuring its effectiveness and dependability in delivering lifesaving respiratory support.This research extensively examined sensor reliability and performance through verification tests and calibrations, highlighting the precision of the servo motor and the suitability of the 5-Amps current sensor for monitoring servo motor current without additional calibration. Optimisation efforts aimed to enhance the ventilators performance by relocating the pusher arm to the bag’s centre, resulting in improved volume displacement efficiency by 7.78 % and a 25.35 % reduction in current consumption. Shape optimisation, especially with curvature-based pressure plates, increased volume displacement by 84.47 % reaching an optimal configuration outputting 1475.73 ml of volume per compression. Understanding the forces through strain gauges and FEA facilitated topology optimisation, the MAXSTIFFDS15 configuration demonstrated promising results by reducing component weight and achieving significant energy savings of 45.04 %, potentially reducing long-term costs. , Thesis (MEng) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB) in the South African transport state-owned enterprises
- Authors: Calvert, Candice
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Organizational behavior -- South Africa , Government business enterprises -- South Africa , Government ownership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64896 , vital:73944
- Description: The transport sector is critically important for economic growth and sustainability of a country and therefore requires carefully crafted strategical policies aimed at social enhancements. Employees who are employed in the major South African transport sector’s State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) carry the responsibility of providing quality and effective services, thus, they are executing the mandate of the National Department of Transport (NDoT). Therefore, their willingness to contribute positively to the goals of the sector, is critically important. Extra-roles and positive behaviours displayed by employees ensure that organisations gain competitive advantage over competitors. These special behaviours are documented in literature as organisational citizenship behaviours (OCB). OCB is referred to as voluntary positive behaviours displayed by employees, which benefit the organisation and improve the overall performance of employees and the organisation but are not recognised by the reward system of the organisation. The scarcity of literature pertaining to OCB in SOEs and in particular, the transport sector globally indicates that OCB is not entrenched in organisational cultures in this sector. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the views of management and employees regarding the influential factors and the outcomes of OCB in South Africa’s major SOEs in the transport sector. A hypothetical model and a questionnaire were developed to establish the influential factors of OCB and its outcomes on the performance of South Africa’s major transport SOEs. Eight independent variables (leadership styles, organisational culture, management support, personal importance, transparency, job autonomy, employee trust and organisational commitment), the intervening variable (organisational citizenship behaviour) and the dependent variables (employee performance and employee retention) were investigated. Primary data was collected by means of electronic questionnaires, which were distributed to five provinces via a QuestionPro link that was emailed to the contact person nominated by the HR department of the two major transport SOEs. Hard copies of the questionnaire were also physically distributed to prospective participants by the researcher. Non-probability sampling was used, specifically convenience sampling technique. The study targeted 500 respondents and 318 questionnaires were usable which amounts to a response rate of 64%. The reliability of the measuring instrument was determined by means of Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and the construct validity was tested using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Content validity for the measuring instrument was validated by experts in the fields of organisational behaviour and change management, prior to the distribution of the questionnaire to participants. EFA, descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis and correlation analysis were determined. A STATISTICA computer programme 14.0 was used. The results of the study showed that OCB, which was tested as a seven-dimensional construct, namely, altruism, sportsmanship, loyalty, individual initiative, civic virtue, courtesy, and self-development, was perceived by respondents as two constructs, namely, OCB-selflessness (OCB-S) (altruism, sportsmanship, individual initiative, courtesy and self-development) and OCB-reliability (OCB-R) (civic virtue and loyalty). The empirical results revealed that personal importance is significantly related to OCB-S, but is not significantly related to OCB-R. Furthermore, the findings showed that transparency is not significantly related to OCB-S, however, there is a significant positive relationship between transparency and OCB-R. It was also found that job autonomy is not significantly related to OCB-S, and has a significant negative relationship with OCB-R. In addition, the research findings showed that employee trust and organisational commitment are significantly related to both OCB-S and OCB-R. OCB-S and OCB-R were found to be significantly related to employee performance and employee retention. This study contributed to the body of knowledge in the fields of organisational behaviour and human resources. Furthermore, the study will contribute to policy makers and management within the transport sector of South Africa and globally in order to develop policies and devise strategies to combat negative workplace environments, stimulate service delivery, and improve the competitive advantage of the organisation and the economic sustainability in the transport sector globally, through employee performance and employee retention. , Thesis (DBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Calvert, Candice
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Organizational behavior -- South Africa , Government business enterprises -- South Africa , Government ownership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64896 , vital:73944
- Description: The transport sector is critically important for economic growth and sustainability of a country and therefore requires carefully crafted strategical policies aimed at social enhancements. Employees who are employed in the major South African transport sector’s State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) carry the responsibility of providing quality and effective services, thus, they are executing the mandate of the National Department of Transport (NDoT). Therefore, their willingness to contribute positively to the goals of the sector, is critically important. Extra-roles and positive behaviours displayed by employees ensure that organisations gain competitive advantage over competitors. These special behaviours are documented in literature as organisational citizenship behaviours (OCB). OCB is referred to as voluntary positive behaviours displayed by employees, which benefit the organisation and improve the overall performance of employees and the organisation but are not recognised by the reward system of the organisation. The scarcity of literature pertaining to OCB in SOEs and in particular, the transport sector globally indicates that OCB is not entrenched in organisational cultures in this sector. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the views of management and employees regarding the influential factors and the outcomes of OCB in South Africa’s major SOEs in the transport sector. A hypothetical model and a questionnaire were developed to establish the influential factors of OCB and its outcomes on the performance of South Africa’s major transport SOEs. Eight independent variables (leadership styles, organisational culture, management support, personal importance, transparency, job autonomy, employee trust and organisational commitment), the intervening variable (organisational citizenship behaviour) and the dependent variables (employee performance and employee retention) were investigated. Primary data was collected by means of electronic questionnaires, which were distributed to five provinces via a QuestionPro link that was emailed to the contact person nominated by the HR department of the two major transport SOEs. Hard copies of the questionnaire were also physically distributed to prospective participants by the researcher. Non-probability sampling was used, specifically convenience sampling technique. The study targeted 500 respondents and 318 questionnaires were usable which amounts to a response rate of 64%. The reliability of the measuring instrument was determined by means of Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and the construct validity was tested using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Content validity for the measuring instrument was validated by experts in the fields of organisational behaviour and change management, prior to the distribution of the questionnaire to participants. EFA, descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis and correlation analysis were determined. A STATISTICA computer programme 14.0 was used. The results of the study showed that OCB, which was tested as a seven-dimensional construct, namely, altruism, sportsmanship, loyalty, individual initiative, civic virtue, courtesy, and self-development, was perceived by respondents as two constructs, namely, OCB-selflessness (OCB-S) (altruism, sportsmanship, individual initiative, courtesy and self-development) and OCB-reliability (OCB-R) (civic virtue and loyalty). The empirical results revealed that personal importance is significantly related to OCB-S, but is not significantly related to OCB-R. Furthermore, the findings showed that transparency is not significantly related to OCB-S, however, there is a significant positive relationship between transparency and OCB-R. It was also found that job autonomy is not significantly related to OCB-S, and has a significant negative relationship with OCB-R. In addition, the research findings showed that employee trust and organisational commitment are significantly related to both OCB-S and OCB-R. OCB-S and OCB-R were found to be significantly related to employee performance and employee retention. This study contributed to the body of knowledge in the fields of organisational behaviour and human resources. Furthermore, the study will contribute to policy makers and management within the transport sector of South Africa and globally in order to develop policies and devise strategies to combat negative workplace environments, stimulate service delivery, and improve the competitive advantage of the organisation and the economic sustainability in the transport sector globally, through employee performance and employee retention. , Thesis (DBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Out of place: an analysis of place as a contributor to the complexities of my “coloured” identity in Malabar, Gqeberha
- Authors: Flowers, Victoria
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Colored people (South Africa) -- Race identity , Ethnicity in art -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Modernism (Art)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62780 , vital:72954
- Description: Coloured identity has been a historical point of contestation in South Africa because Colouredness is assumed as “an inbred quality that arises automatically from miscegenation while instrumentalists share the essentialist premise that coloured identity is something negative and undesirable but blame it on the racism and the exploitative practices of the ruling white minority” (Adhikari, 2009: 15). This archaic belief attributed to racial mixture has now become redundant, due to the emergence of new hybridised Coloured identities that factor other ethnic and cultural groups as well as internal and external elements into their conception. The role of Place in the formation of Coloured identities is at the core of this fine arts based enquiry. This study is located in Malabar, Gqeberha which was established after the forced removals onset by the Group Areas Act of 1950 and the displacement of residents from South End. Additionally, it considers specific locations significant in their linkages to hybridised peoples, and how the place and individuals have been influenced by historical legacies of colonisation and apartheid. These are examined to consider their function in contextualising contemporary lived experiences of Coloured identity within the community of Malabar and its effect on artistic practice through autoethnographic research. Through this autoethnographic and reflexive study and the accompanying empirical research process, I critically examine and explore my Coloured identity as part of being-in-the-world (Heidegger, 1962). This ‘being’ is multifaceted as a result of the significance of Place in South Africa and how it has shaped my perception of how and where I have a sense of being and belonging. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School Visual and Performing Arts, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Flowers, Victoria
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Colored people (South Africa) -- Race identity , Ethnicity in art -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Modernism (Art)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62780 , vital:72954
- Description: Coloured identity has been a historical point of contestation in South Africa because Colouredness is assumed as “an inbred quality that arises automatically from miscegenation while instrumentalists share the essentialist premise that coloured identity is something negative and undesirable but blame it on the racism and the exploitative practices of the ruling white minority” (Adhikari, 2009: 15). This archaic belief attributed to racial mixture has now become redundant, due to the emergence of new hybridised Coloured identities that factor other ethnic and cultural groups as well as internal and external elements into their conception. The role of Place in the formation of Coloured identities is at the core of this fine arts based enquiry. This study is located in Malabar, Gqeberha which was established after the forced removals onset by the Group Areas Act of 1950 and the displacement of residents from South End. Additionally, it considers specific locations significant in their linkages to hybridised peoples, and how the place and individuals have been influenced by historical legacies of colonisation and apartheid. These are examined to consider their function in contextualising contemporary lived experiences of Coloured identity within the community of Malabar and its effect on artistic practice through autoethnographic research. Through this autoethnographic and reflexive study and the accompanying empirical research process, I critically examine and explore my Coloured identity as part of being-in-the-world (Heidegger, 1962). This ‘being’ is multifaceted as a result of the significance of Place in South Africa and how it has shaped my perception of how and where I have a sense of being and belonging. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School Visual and Performing Arts, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Photocatalytic reduction of CO2 into green fuels on microspherical nanocomposites comprising of CdS, TiO2, ZnFe2O4 semiconductors and heterojunctions
- Authors: Mudau, Rendani Julian
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Heterojunctions , Chemistry, Inorganic , Nanochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64214 , vital:73665
- Description: Human anthropogenic activities have led to an increase in CO2 levels resulting in global warming. There is a need to reduce CO2 levels in the atmosphere by capturing the gas and converting the captured CO2 into fuels. Photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into valuable products via photoreduction is a promising technique to reduce carbon dioxide using sunlight and water. Redox reactions between CO2 and water using photocatalysts offer an effective method of lowering CO2, which has detrimental effects on the environment. This dissertation reports the synthesis and characterization of five photochemical catalysts comprising of CdS, TiO2, ZnFe2O4 semiconductors and heterojunctions and their use as photocatalysts for the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 into green fuels. Mott−Schottky plot of TiO2, CdS and CdS/TiO2 confirmed the formation of n-type, n-type, and n-n type material respectively. The band gap of TiO2, CdS, and CdS/TiO2 obtained were 3.21,2.24, 2.04 eV, respectively, the combination of TiO2 and CdS resulted in the lowering of band gap energy which is favourable for photocatalytic reduction studies. XRD of TiO2, CdS and CdS/TiO2 provided relevant information about the various phase reflections of the photocatalysts, it also supported reports confirming the increase in crystallite size of TiO2 anatase phase upon calcination. Chemical environment of the various photocatalysts, such as Ti2p1/2, Ti2p3/2, O1s, Cd3d3/2, Cd3d5/2, S2p1/2 and S2p3/2 were observed in TiO2, CdS and CdS/TiO2. BET surface area of TiO2, CdS and CdS/TiO2 was also observed to be 2.9243, 4.0605, and 9.8450 m2g, respectively. Photocatalytic reduction of CO2 resulted in formic acid, formaldehyde, acetic acid, carbon monoxide, ethanol, and methanol after 12 h. Modification of CdS with TiO2 to form CdS/TiO2 produced high yield of formic acid (217.7 μmol/g) compared to CdS (8.7 μmol/g) and TiO2 (122.5 μmol/g). CdS had high yield of formaldehyde (20.4 μmol/g) and ethanol (57.8 μmol/g) compared to TiO2 (12.9, 3.6 μmol/g of formaldehyde and ethanol, respectively) and CdS/TiO2 (19.7 μmol/g and there was no detection of ethanol). TiO2 shows high yield of methanol (145.2 μmol/g) and is the only catalysts that produced carbon monoxide (52.2 μmol/g) compared to CdS (87.8 μmol/g of methanol) and CdS/TiO2 (50.2 μmol/g of methanol). A detailed elucidation of the various products was reported by means of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer. ZnFe2O4 and CdS/TiO2/ZnFe2O4 were characterized and employed for photocatalytic reduction of CO2 in water. XRD and XPS confirmed the presence Fe (2+) and Fe (3+) in tetrahedral/octahedral and Zn (2+) in tetrahedral on ZnFe2O4 and CdS/TiO2. CdS/TiO2/ZnFe2O4 presented a lowered band gap of 1.98 eV due to the presence of ZnFe2O4 while the band gap of ZnFe2O4 obtained is 1.95 eV. The Mott-Schottky plots confirmed the conduction (2.81 and 2.59 eV) and valence band (–0.86 and –6.1 eV) of ZnFe2O4 and CdS/TiO2/ZnFe2O4 together with their junctions, respectively. ZnFe2O4 and CdS/TiO2/ZnFe2O4 are p-type and p-n type junctions, respectively. Photocatalytic reduction of CO2 under visible light for 12 h using CdS/TiO2/ZnFe2O4 hollow microspheres nanocomposites produced methanol (182.1 μmol/g), formic acid (1.9 μmol/g), formaldehyde (9.5 μmol/g), ethanol (67.1 μmol/g), and oxalic acid (38.9 μmol/g). Amongst the synthesized catalysts, CdS/TiO2/ZnFe2O4 produced high yield of methanol, ethanol, and oxalic acid. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Mudau, Rendani Julian
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Heterojunctions , Chemistry, Inorganic , Nanochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64214 , vital:73665
- Description: Human anthropogenic activities have led to an increase in CO2 levels resulting in global warming. There is a need to reduce CO2 levels in the atmosphere by capturing the gas and converting the captured CO2 into fuels. Photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into valuable products via photoreduction is a promising technique to reduce carbon dioxide using sunlight and water. Redox reactions between CO2 and water using photocatalysts offer an effective method of lowering CO2, which has detrimental effects on the environment. This dissertation reports the synthesis and characterization of five photochemical catalysts comprising of CdS, TiO2, ZnFe2O4 semiconductors and heterojunctions and their use as photocatalysts for the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 into green fuels. Mott−Schottky plot of TiO2, CdS and CdS/TiO2 confirmed the formation of n-type, n-type, and n-n type material respectively. The band gap of TiO2, CdS, and CdS/TiO2 obtained were 3.21,2.24, 2.04 eV, respectively, the combination of TiO2 and CdS resulted in the lowering of band gap energy which is favourable for photocatalytic reduction studies. XRD of TiO2, CdS and CdS/TiO2 provided relevant information about the various phase reflections of the photocatalysts, it also supported reports confirming the increase in crystallite size of TiO2 anatase phase upon calcination. Chemical environment of the various photocatalysts, such as Ti2p1/2, Ti2p3/2, O1s, Cd3d3/2, Cd3d5/2, S2p1/2 and S2p3/2 were observed in TiO2, CdS and CdS/TiO2. BET surface area of TiO2, CdS and CdS/TiO2 was also observed to be 2.9243, 4.0605, and 9.8450 m2g, respectively. Photocatalytic reduction of CO2 resulted in formic acid, formaldehyde, acetic acid, carbon monoxide, ethanol, and methanol after 12 h. Modification of CdS with TiO2 to form CdS/TiO2 produced high yield of formic acid (217.7 μmol/g) compared to CdS (8.7 μmol/g) and TiO2 (122.5 μmol/g). CdS had high yield of formaldehyde (20.4 μmol/g) and ethanol (57.8 μmol/g) compared to TiO2 (12.9, 3.6 μmol/g of formaldehyde and ethanol, respectively) and CdS/TiO2 (19.7 μmol/g and there was no detection of ethanol). TiO2 shows high yield of methanol (145.2 μmol/g) and is the only catalysts that produced carbon monoxide (52.2 μmol/g) compared to CdS (87.8 μmol/g of methanol) and CdS/TiO2 (50.2 μmol/g of methanol). A detailed elucidation of the various products was reported by means of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer. ZnFe2O4 and CdS/TiO2/ZnFe2O4 were characterized and employed for photocatalytic reduction of CO2 in water. XRD and XPS confirmed the presence Fe (2+) and Fe (3+) in tetrahedral/octahedral and Zn (2+) in tetrahedral on ZnFe2O4 and CdS/TiO2. CdS/TiO2/ZnFe2O4 presented a lowered band gap of 1.98 eV due to the presence of ZnFe2O4 while the band gap of ZnFe2O4 obtained is 1.95 eV. The Mott-Schottky plots confirmed the conduction (2.81 and 2.59 eV) and valence band (–0.86 and –6.1 eV) of ZnFe2O4 and CdS/TiO2/ZnFe2O4 together with their junctions, respectively. ZnFe2O4 and CdS/TiO2/ZnFe2O4 are p-type and p-n type junctions, respectively. Photocatalytic reduction of CO2 under visible light for 12 h using CdS/TiO2/ZnFe2O4 hollow microspheres nanocomposites produced methanol (182.1 μmol/g), formic acid (1.9 μmol/g), formaldehyde (9.5 μmol/g), ethanol (67.1 μmol/g), and oxalic acid (38.9 μmol/g). Amongst the synthesized catalysts, CdS/TiO2/ZnFe2O4 produced high yield of methanol, ethanol, and oxalic acid. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Photoluminescence and electroluminescence imaging of PV devices
- Authors: Roodt, Roelof Petrus
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Photoluminescence , Biosensors
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64333 , vital:73676
- Description: Luminescence imaging has become a particularly useful and valuable tool for the characterisation of photovoltaic devices. This study entailed the design, construction, and optimisation of a system for the electroluminescence (EL) and photoluminescence (PL) imaging of various solar cell devices. The system can perform EL and PL imaging of solar cells of different cell technologies and materials systems, including Si, perovskite, and triple-junction concentrator solar cells. This required appropriate electrical power supplies for carrier injection for EL imaging and optical excitation for PL imaging. The different materials systems also required wavelength appropriate filters for PL imaging. In addition, the system utilized a temperature-controlled sample stage and was placed in a chamber for environmental control and isolation of UV radiation from laboratory. In addition to optimization of imaging conditions, luminescence images need to be optimized to facilitate detailed analysis and the application of appropriate algorithms to extract device parameters and hence generate device parameter images of the devices under investigation. For EL imaging, two power supplies were used to inject current into the solar cells. The reason for the two power supplies is that the first power supply had a current range of ± 1 A and an applied voltage capability of ± 21 V. This was used for the smaller solar cells. It was also convenient to use as the power supply could also measure the injected current and applied voltage and digitally store it with the images. For the larger solar cells, a second power supply was utilized, which could inject current into the samples in the range of ± 12 A at an applied voltage of ± 40 V. To measure the current and voltage of the power supply provided, two digital multimeters were utilized. For acquiring images, the same camera was used for EL and PL imaging. The sensor used in the camera is a silicon CMOS sensor. For PL imaging, four light emitting diode (LED) boards, consisting out of sixty-four LED’s, per board, of four different wavelengths, were used to optically excite the solar cells. The four wavelengths emitted by the LED’s were chosen to match the bandgaps of the different solar cell devices investigated. The LEDs were powered with a multi-channel constant voltage power supply, where the current could be varied. The Si solar cell is a 156 x 156 mm commercial solar cell. The perovskite solar module is a 40 x 40 mm module, which consists out of six cells connected in series. The triple-junction concentrator solar cell has a dimension of 10 x 10 mm which consists of three junctions staked on top of one another. These three layers consist of indium gallium phosphate (InGaP), indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) and germanium (Ge). To capture EL and PL images of these various solar cell devices, filters of specific wavelengths were placed in front of the camera to isolate the light generated by the different devices. In addition to isolating the luminescence observed from the solar cells, an image correction procedure was adapted from literature, to be applicable to acquiring luminescence images of these various solar cells. As there are a range of factors which influence the quality and clarity of the luminescence images, i.e., chromatic aberration, diffraction, and absorption depth, to name a few, the wavelength dependency of these factors was investigated. This was done by acquiring a point spread function (PSF) for each of these devices and then using these PSF's together with a deconvolution algorithm to correct the luminescence images. The PSF was acquired by fitting a point source emission image to a function that includes exponential and Gaussian terms. The point source image was obtained by placing a black piece of vinyl with a pinhole in it over the solar cell. To communicate with all the various devices and to acquire images at various intensities a LABVIEW program was written. This was used then used to control the power supplies, digital multimeters, camera, and the LED's. This allowed for the user to specify at what points along the current-voltage (I-V) curve data points needed to be measured together with the luminescence images captured. For PL imaging the intensity of the LED's was then also adjusted according to user specified values. The system was utilised to acquire EL images of the Si solar cell, EL and PL images of the perovskite solar cell and EL images of the InGaP and InGaAs layers in the triple-junction concentrator solar cell. With the correction procedure utilised in this study, it was seen that the image quality and clarity improved, compared to the conventional way of capturing luminescence images. These statements are supported by the results obtained for the series resistance maps of the Si solar cell and the perovskite solar module, as the series resistance maps obtained from the corrected luminescence images have less noise and more detail compared to the results from the raw luminescence images. From the EL images captured for the two layers of the triple junction concentrator, it was clear that the intensity profile of the two layers is different, as the intensity for the InGaP layers was that the device had bright edges and darker intensity on the interior where exactly the opposite was observed for the InGaAs layer, having a bright interior and darker edges. This is most likely due to the opto-electric coupling of these layers withing the triple junction solar cell. For the series resistance images obtained for the Si solar cell, it is observed that at lower carrier injection, the series resistance is lower compared to higher carrier injection levels. This result can also be influenced by the increase in cell temperature with the increase in injected carriers. The series resistance maps obtained from the perovskite EL images shows an interesting result. As the perovskite solar cell has degraded, three of the six cells have optically inactive regions, showing lower luminescence intensities. The series resistance of the other three cells are much lower compared to these cells that have inactive regions under low injection conditions. As the injection level increases, it is seen that the series resistance values of five of the six cells become comparable to one another. With regards to the PSF, it was found that using a bandpass filter in front of the lens reduced to amount of spreading observed from a single point source across the detector. Furthermore, there is a strong wavelength dependency in the PSF as the severity increased with increase in the emission wavelength of the solar cells under investigation.In this study an opto-electrical characterisation system was constructed to acquire PL and EL images of various solar cell technologies. In addition to this, a range of factors that influence the quality of these images were investigated and used in the image correction procedure to correct the images for all these cell technologies. It was shown that the correction procedure works for all three of the technologies investigated in this study, and all these factors showed a strong wavelength dependency. These corrected luminescence images together with current-voltage (I-V) data was then used to determine characteristic parameters of a one-diode model of the various PV devices. This was not only achieved, but it also clearly indicated that all the correction procedures need to be considered to obtain a clear and accurate representation of the actual PV device. This has a major influence on the understanding and improvement of these PV devices. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Roodt, Roelof Petrus
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Photoluminescence , Biosensors
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64333 , vital:73676
- Description: Luminescence imaging has become a particularly useful and valuable tool for the characterisation of photovoltaic devices. This study entailed the design, construction, and optimisation of a system for the electroluminescence (EL) and photoluminescence (PL) imaging of various solar cell devices. The system can perform EL and PL imaging of solar cells of different cell technologies and materials systems, including Si, perovskite, and triple-junction concentrator solar cells. This required appropriate electrical power supplies for carrier injection for EL imaging and optical excitation for PL imaging. The different materials systems also required wavelength appropriate filters for PL imaging. In addition, the system utilized a temperature-controlled sample stage and was placed in a chamber for environmental control and isolation of UV radiation from laboratory. In addition to optimization of imaging conditions, luminescence images need to be optimized to facilitate detailed analysis and the application of appropriate algorithms to extract device parameters and hence generate device parameter images of the devices under investigation. For EL imaging, two power supplies were used to inject current into the solar cells. The reason for the two power supplies is that the first power supply had a current range of ± 1 A and an applied voltage capability of ± 21 V. This was used for the smaller solar cells. It was also convenient to use as the power supply could also measure the injected current and applied voltage and digitally store it with the images. For the larger solar cells, a second power supply was utilized, which could inject current into the samples in the range of ± 12 A at an applied voltage of ± 40 V. To measure the current and voltage of the power supply provided, two digital multimeters were utilized. For acquiring images, the same camera was used for EL and PL imaging. The sensor used in the camera is a silicon CMOS sensor. For PL imaging, four light emitting diode (LED) boards, consisting out of sixty-four LED’s, per board, of four different wavelengths, were used to optically excite the solar cells. The four wavelengths emitted by the LED’s were chosen to match the bandgaps of the different solar cell devices investigated. The LEDs were powered with a multi-channel constant voltage power supply, where the current could be varied. The Si solar cell is a 156 x 156 mm commercial solar cell. The perovskite solar module is a 40 x 40 mm module, which consists out of six cells connected in series. The triple-junction concentrator solar cell has a dimension of 10 x 10 mm which consists of three junctions staked on top of one another. These three layers consist of indium gallium phosphate (InGaP), indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) and germanium (Ge). To capture EL and PL images of these various solar cell devices, filters of specific wavelengths were placed in front of the camera to isolate the light generated by the different devices. In addition to isolating the luminescence observed from the solar cells, an image correction procedure was adapted from literature, to be applicable to acquiring luminescence images of these various solar cells. As there are a range of factors which influence the quality and clarity of the luminescence images, i.e., chromatic aberration, diffraction, and absorption depth, to name a few, the wavelength dependency of these factors was investigated. This was done by acquiring a point spread function (PSF) for each of these devices and then using these PSF's together with a deconvolution algorithm to correct the luminescence images. The PSF was acquired by fitting a point source emission image to a function that includes exponential and Gaussian terms. The point source image was obtained by placing a black piece of vinyl with a pinhole in it over the solar cell. To communicate with all the various devices and to acquire images at various intensities a LABVIEW program was written. This was used then used to control the power supplies, digital multimeters, camera, and the LED's. This allowed for the user to specify at what points along the current-voltage (I-V) curve data points needed to be measured together with the luminescence images captured. For PL imaging the intensity of the LED's was then also adjusted according to user specified values. The system was utilised to acquire EL images of the Si solar cell, EL and PL images of the perovskite solar cell and EL images of the InGaP and InGaAs layers in the triple-junction concentrator solar cell. With the correction procedure utilised in this study, it was seen that the image quality and clarity improved, compared to the conventional way of capturing luminescence images. These statements are supported by the results obtained for the series resistance maps of the Si solar cell and the perovskite solar module, as the series resistance maps obtained from the corrected luminescence images have less noise and more detail compared to the results from the raw luminescence images. From the EL images captured for the two layers of the triple junction concentrator, it was clear that the intensity profile of the two layers is different, as the intensity for the InGaP layers was that the device had bright edges and darker intensity on the interior where exactly the opposite was observed for the InGaAs layer, having a bright interior and darker edges. This is most likely due to the opto-electric coupling of these layers withing the triple junction solar cell. For the series resistance images obtained for the Si solar cell, it is observed that at lower carrier injection, the series resistance is lower compared to higher carrier injection levels. This result can also be influenced by the increase in cell temperature with the increase in injected carriers. The series resistance maps obtained from the perovskite EL images shows an interesting result. As the perovskite solar cell has degraded, three of the six cells have optically inactive regions, showing lower luminescence intensities. The series resistance of the other three cells are much lower compared to these cells that have inactive regions under low injection conditions. As the injection level increases, it is seen that the series resistance values of five of the six cells become comparable to one another. With regards to the PSF, it was found that using a bandpass filter in front of the lens reduced to amount of spreading observed from a single point source across the detector. Furthermore, there is a strong wavelength dependency in the PSF as the severity increased with increase in the emission wavelength of the solar cells under investigation.In this study an opto-electrical characterisation system was constructed to acquire PL and EL images of various solar cell technologies. In addition to this, a range of factors that influence the quality of these images were investigated and used in the image correction procedure to correct the images for all these cell technologies. It was shown that the correction procedure works for all three of the technologies investigated in this study, and all these factors showed a strong wavelength dependency. These corrected luminescence images together with current-voltage (I-V) data was then used to determine characteristic parameters of a one-diode model of the various PV devices. This was not only achieved, but it also clearly indicated that all the correction procedures need to be considered to obtain a clear and accurate representation of the actual PV device. This has a major influence on the understanding and improvement of these PV devices. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Preparation and Investigation of coumarin-based chemosensors towards sensing of ions using UV studies in aqueous systems
- Authors: Kotze, Tyla
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Chemistry, Analytic , Water chemistry , Ionic solutions , Aquatic ecology , Geochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64116 , vital:73654
- Description: Humanity's unrelenting expansion has shown little regard for the environment, and this has resulted in tons of toxic heavy metal cations and anions being released into the environment through industrial, agricultural, electronic, and mining dumping. The release of these toxic heavy metals can cause diseases and sometimes lead to death, especially in third-world countries with low-income that reside in informal settlements, who suffer the most. Furthermore, the release of these toxins eventually finds their way back into the environment through bioaccumulation in fish, plants and animals. Although there is an ever need for the growth of these industries; low-cost, sensitive, selective, and organic-based sensors is a positive step forward in highlighting the need for environmental restoration and remediation, whilst striving to avoid unnecessary disease and death through this development. In this project, coumarin-based chemosensors for the detection of cationic and anionic species in aqueous and organic media are described. This project involves the synthesis of six different coumarin-based ether derivatives (E2-E5) and coumarin-based ester derivatives (H1-H2). FT-IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR were used to confirm the structures of all sensors. The abilities of these novel compounds as chemosensors for detection of cations and anions were investigated using UV-vis analysis. These compounds displayed a favourable interaction with Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions with an increase in absorbance. Ether derivatives E2-E5 did not display any degree of selectivity or sensitivity towards the chosen anions. It was found that in the presence of FeCl2, sensors H1 and H2 displayed a degree of selectivities and further investigations were therefore carried out. From the titration experiments, the limit of detection, limit of quantification and association constants were determined. Job’s plot analyses were performed to determine the binding ratios, which was supported by Benesi-Hildebrand studies. The binding ratio between the sensors and metal cations during complexation was found to be 1:1. Reversibility studies were carried out using EDTA to determine whether the sensors could be reused. Molecular Modelling studies were used to determine the most preferred binding sites. Lastly, real-life application screenings were also run to determine if the sensors will be able to be used in real-life scenarios. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Kotze, Tyla
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Chemistry, Analytic , Water chemistry , Ionic solutions , Aquatic ecology , Geochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64116 , vital:73654
- Description: Humanity's unrelenting expansion has shown little regard for the environment, and this has resulted in tons of toxic heavy metal cations and anions being released into the environment through industrial, agricultural, electronic, and mining dumping. The release of these toxic heavy metals can cause diseases and sometimes lead to death, especially in third-world countries with low-income that reside in informal settlements, who suffer the most. Furthermore, the release of these toxins eventually finds their way back into the environment through bioaccumulation in fish, plants and animals. Although there is an ever need for the growth of these industries; low-cost, sensitive, selective, and organic-based sensors is a positive step forward in highlighting the need for environmental restoration and remediation, whilst striving to avoid unnecessary disease and death through this development. In this project, coumarin-based chemosensors for the detection of cationic and anionic species in aqueous and organic media are described. This project involves the synthesis of six different coumarin-based ether derivatives (E2-E5) and coumarin-based ester derivatives (H1-H2). FT-IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR were used to confirm the structures of all sensors. The abilities of these novel compounds as chemosensors for detection of cations and anions were investigated using UV-vis analysis. These compounds displayed a favourable interaction with Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions with an increase in absorbance. Ether derivatives E2-E5 did not display any degree of selectivity or sensitivity towards the chosen anions. It was found that in the presence of FeCl2, sensors H1 and H2 displayed a degree of selectivities and further investigations were therefore carried out. From the titration experiments, the limit of detection, limit of quantification and association constants were determined. Job’s plot analyses were performed to determine the binding ratios, which was supported by Benesi-Hildebrand studies. The binding ratio between the sensors and metal cations during complexation was found to be 1:1. Reversibility studies were carried out using EDTA to determine whether the sensors could be reused. Molecular Modelling studies were used to determine the most preferred binding sites. Lastly, real-life application screenings were also run to determine if the sensors will be able to be used in real-life scenarios. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Prevalence of red blood cell alloantibodies in healthy blood donors: A retrospective study
- Authors: Bada, Thandolwethu Sarafina
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Blood--Transfusion , Blood donors , Red blood cell alloantibodies
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63688 , vital:73586
- Description: Background: Blood transfusion is one of the essential supporting therapies in the management of patients and all efforts must be geared towards ensuring greater blood safety. There are studies on the prevalence of red blood cell alloantibodies in numerous transfused patients. However, no research has been done on the population of healthy first-time donors in South Africa who donates blood for transfusion. Red blood cell alloantibodies may be present in the donated units and potentially lead to transfusion reactions or to decreased survival of transfused RBCs. Therefore, it is necessary to know the prevalence of alloantibodies in donors and the clinical significance. Aims and objectives: The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and identity of red blood cell alloantibodies in healthy first-time blood donors in the South African population, as well as to identify them, with the goal of improving blood safety and transfusion support for patients. Materials and methods: This retrospective and observational study investigates healthy first-time blood donors in the South African population over a five-year period, from January 2015 to December 2019. ABO typing and Rh typing were performed using the fully automated immunohaematology analyser BECKMAN COULTER PK7300 (Danaher Corporation, Brea, California). Erytra Eflexis automated system (8-column DG Gel cards) (Diagnostic Grifols, Barcelona, Spain) was used for antibody screening and antibody identification was performed using the RBC 11 Identisera Diana panel sheet. Approval was obtained from the Ethics Committees of Nelson Mandela University, South African National Blood Services and Western Province Blood Services prior to commencement of the study. Results: A total of 497 711 healthy first-time donors, consisting of 209 604 (42%) males and 288 107 (58%) females, were evaluated for irregular antibodies. The maximum number of donors belonged to the age group 18 to 29. Antibody screening results were positive in 849 donors from the entire population investigated, and 603 were RBC alloantibodies with an overall prevalence of 0.12%. The most frequent RBC alloantibody identified was anti-M from the MNS blood group systems, being present in 129 blood donors. Conclusion: The prevalence of RBC alloantibodies in the donor population in the study was 0.12% (603/497 711). As the inclusion criteria was limited, larger studies examining at all donors (first-time and repeated donations) are needed to determine the actual prevalence of alloantibodies in the population of South African donors. , Thesis (MHSc) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Bada, Thandolwethu Sarafina
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Blood--Transfusion , Blood donors , Red blood cell alloantibodies
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63688 , vital:73586
- Description: Background: Blood transfusion is one of the essential supporting therapies in the management of patients and all efforts must be geared towards ensuring greater blood safety. There are studies on the prevalence of red blood cell alloantibodies in numerous transfused patients. However, no research has been done on the population of healthy first-time donors in South Africa who donates blood for transfusion. Red blood cell alloantibodies may be present in the donated units and potentially lead to transfusion reactions or to decreased survival of transfused RBCs. Therefore, it is necessary to know the prevalence of alloantibodies in donors and the clinical significance. Aims and objectives: The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and identity of red blood cell alloantibodies in healthy first-time blood donors in the South African population, as well as to identify them, with the goal of improving blood safety and transfusion support for patients. Materials and methods: This retrospective and observational study investigates healthy first-time blood donors in the South African population over a five-year period, from January 2015 to December 2019. ABO typing and Rh typing were performed using the fully automated immunohaematology analyser BECKMAN COULTER PK7300 (Danaher Corporation, Brea, California). Erytra Eflexis automated system (8-column DG Gel cards) (Diagnostic Grifols, Barcelona, Spain) was used for antibody screening and antibody identification was performed using the RBC 11 Identisera Diana panel sheet. Approval was obtained from the Ethics Committees of Nelson Mandela University, South African National Blood Services and Western Province Blood Services prior to commencement of the study. Results: A total of 497 711 healthy first-time donors, consisting of 209 604 (42%) males and 288 107 (58%) females, were evaluated for irregular antibodies. The maximum number of donors belonged to the age group 18 to 29. Antibody screening results were positive in 849 donors from the entire population investigated, and 603 were RBC alloantibodies with an overall prevalence of 0.12%. The most frequent RBC alloantibody identified was anti-M from the MNS blood group systems, being present in 129 blood donors. Conclusion: The prevalence of RBC alloantibodies in the donor population in the study was 0.12% (603/497 711). As the inclusion criteria was limited, larger studies examining at all donors (first-time and repeated donations) are needed to determine the actual prevalence of alloantibodies in the population of South African donors. , Thesis (MHSc) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Project management deficiencies in construction implemented projects in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mbanga, Abulele Zakhe
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Project management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Management , Construction workers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64640 , vital:73819
- Description: The problems that crop up in each project are unique to that project. They can also be avoided or minimised as inherent weaknesses. Project managers lack strategic considerations when running projects. This is primarily dependent on individuals’ implementation of project management. The concern is how project managers implementing construction projects can be corrected to remove management deficiencies. In recent years, project management has become an essential part of organisations. This is because of the changing nature of managing organisations due to technological advancement and a complex, competitive global marketplace (Nguyen, Nguyen, Le-Hoai & Dang, 2015). Projects require huge capital outlays. As such, it is crucial to have good project management practices to deliver value for money projects and programmes. Therefore, the importance of good project management practices cannot be ignored by corporate managers, as failure destroys shareholders’ value and, in the private sector, can significantly affect the various stakeholders associated with projects. However, studies indicate that companies in the private sector in the Eastern Cape sometimes fail to complete projects. (Fabian & Amir, 2015). Project management deficiencies in the Eastern Cape are as high as those of other provinces in South Africa, if not higher (Saad, 2022). The primary reasons for project management deficiencies are project planning failure, scope management failure, resource management failure, and communication management failure (Liu, Louw, Ngugi & Smith, 2011). Therefore, using different success and failure criteria, this study aims to measure the impact of project management deficiencies in communication management, project planning, scope change, and resource management. Project management deficiencies in construction projects implemented in recent years have been one of the topics most discussed by academics, practising managers, the private and public sectors, and many social commentators worldwide. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Mbanga, Abulele Zakhe
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Project management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Management , Construction workers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64640 , vital:73819
- Description: The problems that crop up in each project are unique to that project. They can also be avoided or minimised as inherent weaknesses. Project managers lack strategic considerations when running projects. This is primarily dependent on individuals’ implementation of project management. The concern is how project managers implementing construction projects can be corrected to remove management deficiencies. In recent years, project management has become an essential part of organisations. This is because of the changing nature of managing organisations due to technological advancement and a complex, competitive global marketplace (Nguyen, Nguyen, Le-Hoai & Dang, 2015). Projects require huge capital outlays. As such, it is crucial to have good project management practices to deliver value for money projects and programmes. Therefore, the importance of good project management practices cannot be ignored by corporate managers, as failure destroys shareholders’ value and, in the private sector, can significantly affect the various stakeholders associated with projects. However, studies indicate that companies in the private sector in the Eastern Cape sometimes fail to complete projects. (Fabian & Amir, 2015). Project management deficiencies in the Eastern Cape are as high as those of other provinces in South Africa, if not higher (Saad, 2022). The primary reasons for project management deficiencies are project planning failure, scope management failure, resource management failure, and communication management failure (Liu, Louw, Ngugi & Smith, 2011). Therefore, using different success and failure criteria, this study aims to measure the impact of project management deficiencies in communication management, project planning, scope change, and resource management. Project management deficiencies in construction projects implemented in recent years have been one of the topics most discussed by academics, practising managers, the private and public sectors, and many social commentators worldwide. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Public policy considerations and the enforcement of restraint of trade agreements.
- Authors: Tinyane, Nthabeleng
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Trade agreement , Restraint of trade , Commercial policy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66297 , vital:74493
- Description: A restraint of trade is often incorporated into a contract of employment, stipulating that an employee is restricted from working in the same industry or sector as the employer for a specified period of time. Such a provision is aimed at protecting an employer's proprietary interests, such as trade connections and secrets, which may potentially benefit a competitor unfairly and unlawfully. In South Africa, the principles associated with restraints of trade are rooted in common law. The landmark judgment in Magna Alloys & Research (SA) (Pty) Ltd v Ellis clarified the legal position regarding agreements in restraint of trade in South Africa. Prior to the judgment, there were considerable differences in the approaches adopted by the courts in relation to provisions in restraint. These differences primarily centered around the Roman-Dutch law notion, which holds that contracts voluntarily entered into ought to be honored (pacta sunt servanda), and the English law approach that contracts in restraint of trade are prima facie unenforceable. The court in Magna held that the position in South Africa with regard to agreements in restraint of trade is that each agreement should be examined with regard to its own circumstances to determine whether the enforcement of such an agreement would be contrary to public policy. This means that while restraints of trade are generally enforceable, they must be reasonable and not against the public interest. The reasonableness of the restraint is assessed based on factors such as the duration and geographic scope of the restraint, the nature of the employee’s role, and the interests of the employer that the restraint seeks to protect.. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Department of Mercantile law (Labour Law), 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Tinyane, Nthabeleng
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Trade agreement , Restraint of trade , Commercial policy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66297 , vital:74493
- Description: A restraint of trade is often incorporated into a contract of employment, stipulating that an employee is restricted from working in the same industry or sector as the employer for a specified period of time. Such a provision is aimed at protecting an employer's proprietary interests, such as trade connections and secrets, which may potentially benefit a competitor unfairly and unlawfully. In South Africa, the principles associated with restraints of trade are rooted in common law. The landmark judgment in Magna Alloys & Research (SA) (Pty) Ltd v Ellis clarified the legal position regarding agreements in restraint of trade in South Africa. Prior to the judgment, there were considerable differences in the approaches adopted by the courts in relation to provisions in restraint. These differences primarily centered around the Roman-Dutch law notion, which holds that contracts voluntarily entered into ought to be honored (pacta sunt servanda), and the English law approach that contracts in restraint of trade are prima facie unenforceable. The court in Magna held that the position in South Africa with regard to agreements in restraint of trade is that each agreement should be examined with regard to its own circumstances to determine whether the enforcement of such an agreement would be contrary to public policy. This means that while restraints of trade are generally enforceable, they must be reasonable and not against the public interest. The reasonableness of the restraint is assessed based on factors such as the duration and geographic scope of the restraint, the nature of the employee’s role, and the interests of the employer that the restraint seeks to protect.. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Department of Mercantile law (Labour Law), 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Quantify the shift in critical strain energy density for a dynamic loaded S355J2 weld section by small punch testing
- Authors: Snyman, Ross
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Materials -- Testing , Materials -- Microscopy , Mechanical engineering
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64830 , vital:73927
- Description: The potential of using “critical strain energy density” as an indicator to detect material degradation on fatigue-loaded components, where the stress amplitude was gradually increased, was investigated by applying the small punch test methodology. Small punch discs were extracted from four fatigue specimens. Discs were extracted from two zones within the fatigue specimens: the heat-affected zone of a shield metal arc welded butt joint, as well as from parent metal plate area. Each fatigue specimen having been exposed to a different stress amplitude but equal number of fatigue cycles of 20 million. This allowed the development of a Small Punch Test results database, permitting the calculation of material properties by using a Finite Element Analysis inverse method. Critical strain energy values did not reveal any conclusive shift or correlation for discs extracted from the HAZ. This is mainly attributed to variance in the grain structure for HAZ samples. For discs extracted from parent metal, a decreasing trend in strain energy density value was noted in relation to an increase in the fatigue test stress amplitude. This observed change was a clear indication of the potential for using “Strain Energy Density”, as extracted from this test methodology, as a ranking tool for quantifying the extent of degradation of in-service components. The application of this study demonstrated the ability to monitor and predict material degradation for a given stress range over the expected life of a cyclically loaded component utilizing strain energy density results. This is useful, particularly in heavy industries where structures and large-scale components are used beyond their original design life. , Thesis (MEng) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Snyman, Ross
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Materials -- Testing , Materials -- Microscopy , Mechanical engineering
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64830 , vital:73927
- Description: The potential of using “critical strain energy density” as an indicator to detect material degradation on fatigue-loaded components, where the stress amplitude was gradually increased, was investigated by applying the small punch test methodology. Small punch discs were extracted from four fatigue specimens. Discs were extracted from two zones within the fatigue specimens: the heat-affected zone of a shield metal arc welded butt joint, as well as from parent metal plate area. Each fatigue specimen having been exposed to a different stress amplitude but equal number of fatigue cycles of 20 million. This allowed the development of a Small Punch Test results database, permitting the calculation of material properties by using a Finite Element Analysis inverse method. Critical strain energy values did not reveal any conclusive shift or correlation for discs extracted from the HAZ. This is mainly attributed to variance in the grain structure for HAZ samples. For discs extracted from parent metal, a decreasing trend in strain energy density value was noted in relation to an increase in the fatigue test stress amplitude. This observed change was a clear indication of the potential for using “Strain Energy Density”, as extracted from this test methodology, as a ranking tool for quantifying the extent of degradation of in-service components. The application of this study demonstrated the ability to monitor and predict material degradation for a given stress range over the expected life of a cyclically loaded component utilizing strain energy density results. This is useful, particularly in heavy industries where structures and large-scale components are used beyond their original design life. , Thesis (MEng) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Quantifying the impact of the spatio-temporal variability of land use/land cover on surface run-off generation and groundwater recharge in the luvuvhu river catchment area as a study area
- Ramuhovhi, Dakalo Ndivhuwo Stella
- Authors: Ramuhovhi, Dakalo Ndivhuwo Stella
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Remote sensing , Geographic information systems , Groundwater flow
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64322 , vital:73675
- Description: Assessing the spatio-temporal dynamics of land use land cover (LULC) change on hydrological response is vital for catchment sustainability and developing proper management strategies. The study aimed to assess the spatiotemporal effects and implications of LULC dynamics on surface runoff in the Luvuvhu River Catchment, Limpopo Province, using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model. Satellite images of Landsat 5-thematic mapper and Landsat 8 operational land imager for the years 1990 and 2021 were used to explore the characteristics of LULC for this study by adopting the maximum likelihood (ML) supervised classification method. Five LULC classes were classified in this study; namely, water, built-up area, bare surface, dense vegetation, and sparse vegetation. The classification results show good accuracy values in the range of 76% (1990) and 84% (2021) with overall kappa of 63.8% and 72.8% for 1990 and 2021, respectively. For the purpose of this study, integration of geospatial technique and SWAT model were configured to operate at a monthly time interval over a span of 34 years, specifically from 1979 to 2013 to simulate surface runoff. The SWAT simulation process was executed using a digital elevation model, soil, LULC, and weather data. The analysis of LULC for 1990 and 2021 runoff modelling, it was found that, the runoff depth increased gradually from 3249 mm to 5162.5 mm during 1990 and 2021 LULC change, respectively. The R2, ENS, PBIAS, and RSR values for the calibration and the validation were 0.81 and 0.76, and 0.72 and 0.68, 0.64 and 0.58, 0.54 and 0.63 respectively. These values indicate good correlation between the observed and simulated stream flow data Therefore, suitable and timely management measures must be taken by policy decision-makers to enable sustainable development and to protect the catchment’s natural resources in order to reduce the severity of the changes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Ramuhovhi, Dakalo Ndivhuwo Stella
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Remote sensing , Geographic information systems , Groundwater flow
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64322 , vital:73675
- Description: Assessing the spatio-temporal dynamics of land use land cover (LULC) change on hydrological response is vital for catchment sustainability and developing proper management strategies. The study aimed to assess the spatiotemporal effects and implications of LULC dynamics on surface runoff in the Luvuvhu River Catchment, Limpopo Province, using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model. Satellite images of Landsat 5-thematic mapper and Landsat 8 operational land imager for the years 1990 and 2021 were used to explore the characteristics of LULC for this study by adopting the maximum likelihood (ML) supervised classification method. Five LULC classes were classified in this study; namely, water, built-up area, bare surface, dense vegetation, and sparse vegetation. The classification results show good accuracy values in the range of 76% (1990) and 84% (2021) with overall kappa of 63.8% and 72.8% for 1990 and 2021, respectively. For the purpose of this study, integration of geospatial technique and SWAT model were configured to operate at a monthly time interval over a span of 34 years, specifically from 1979 to 2013 to simulate surface runoff. The SWAT simulation process was executed using a digital elevation model, soil, LULC, and weather data. The analysis of LULC for 1990 and 2021 runoff modelling, it was found that, the runoff depth increased gradually from 3249 mm to 5162.5 mm during 1990 and 2021 LULC change, respectively. The R2, ENS, PBIAS, and RSR values for the calibration and the validation were 0.81 and 0.76, and 0.72 and 0.68, 0.64 and 0.58, 0.54 and 0.63 respectively. These values indicate good correlation between the observed and simulated stream flow data Therefore, suitable and timely management measures must be taken by policy decision-makers to enable sustainable development and to protect the catchment’s natural resources in order to reduce the severity of the changes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities at the workplace
- Authors: Addae, Charles Kwadwo
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 , Disability rights , Disability in the work place
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66140 , vital:74420
- Description: In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of inclusivity and equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the workplace. This thesis aims to contribute to this discourse by examining the issue of reasonable accommodation for disabled employees, with a specific focus on the South African context. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities provide important frameworks for promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for disabled individuals in employment. These global standards emphasise the need for reasonable accommodation, which refers to the adjustments and modifications made to the work environment or job duties to enable disabled employees to perform their tasks effectively. In South Africa, the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 (EEA) and the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 (LRA) serve as the legal framework for addressing disability rights in the workplace. These acts outline the obligations of employers to provide reasonable accommodation and protect disabled employees from discrimination. By analysing the specific provisions within the EEA and LRA, this research aims to gain insights into how South Africa addresses and implements reasonable accommodation measures. By synthesizing the perspectives of the ILO, the UN Convention, and the South African legal framework, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges, successes, and potential areas for improvement in achieving workplace inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. It will examine the barriers that disabled employees face in accessing reasonable accommodation, such as attitudinal barriers, lack of awareness, and financial constraints. Additionally, it will explore the strategies and initiatives that have been successful in promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for disabled individuals in the South African workplace. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Law, Department of Mercantile law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Addae, Charles Kwadwo
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 , Disability rights , Disability in the work place
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66140 , vital:74420
- Description: In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of inclusivity and equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the workplace. This thesis aims to contribute to this discourse by examining the issue of reasonable accommodation for disabled employees, with a specific focus on the South African context. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities provide important frameworks for promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for disabled individuals in employment. These global standards emphasise the need for reasonable accommodation, which refers to the adjustments and modifications made to the work environment or job duties to enable disabled employees to perform their tasks effectively. In South Africa, the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 (EEA) and the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 (LRA) serve as the legal framework for addressing disability rights in the workplace. These acts outline the obligations of employers to provide reasonable accommodation and protect disabled employees from discrimination. By analysing the specific provisions within the EEA and LRA, this research aims to gain insights into how South Africa addresses and implements reasonable accommodation measures. By synthesizing the perspectives of the ILO, the UN Convention, and the South African legal framework, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges, successes, and potential areas for improvement in achieving workplace inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. It will examine the barriers that disabled employees face in accessing reasonable accommodation, such as attitudinal barriers, lack of awareness, and financial constraints. Additionally, it will explore the strategies and initiatives that have been successful in promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for disabled individuals in the South African workplace. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Law, Department of Mercantile law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Reconstructing the fire history and palaeoenvironment at Thyspunt, Southern Cape Coast, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ntsondwa, Asithandile
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Paleoecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Paleoclimatology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sedimentation analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64277 , vital:73671
- Description: This study aims to comprehensively understand the palaeoenvironments at Thyspunt in the Eastern Cape, a subregion of the Cape Floristic Region, through fire reconstruction and sediment analyses. Given the fire-dependent nature of the dominant vegetation (fynbos) in the area, there is a need for fire reconstructions and an understanding of the broader ecological dynamics within the southern Cape coastal region (SCCR). This research focused on reconstructing the fire regimes using sedimentary micro- and macrocharcoal from a sediment core (TP-1) extracted from the Langefonteinvlei wetland at Thyspunt, covering the last 5000 years. The charcoal fragments were separated into three size classes, with two falling under microcharcoal (size class 1: 10 – 100 μm and size class 2: 100 – 150 μm) and fragments greater than 150 μm representing macrocharcoal. The sedimentary profile of the TP-1 sequence was characterised based on loss on ignition and x-ray fluorescence analyses to provide better insight into the area's geological and geomorphic setting, climate history, and sediment properties. The results from the geochemical data revealed consistently high calcium carbonate composition throughout the sequence with a decrease in concentration at ~2000 cal. yr BP, 1300 cal. yr BP, and from 500 cal. yr BP to recent years. The sediments had relatively high organic content during the last 500 years. The geochemical data also indicate that the sediments are associated with shallow marine and near-shore depositional environments with a sharp increase in fine material at about 4500 cal. yr BP representing a low-energy environment. High fire activities occur around 4000 cal. yr. BP and from 1500 cal. yr BP till present, with former fire activities more likely associated with increased wildfires (driven by climate change) and the latter possibly reflecting human influence at that time. Microcharcoal fragments (size class 1: 10 – 100 μm) had higher concentrations than the other size fragments. This study underpins the importance of a multiproxy study to enrich our understanding of fire histories in Thyspunt and contributes to broader regional insights. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Reconstructing the fire history and palaeoenvironment at Thyspunt, Southern Cape Coast, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ntsondwa, Asithandile
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Paleoecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Paleoclimatology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sedimentation analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64277 , vital:73671
- Description: This study aims to comprehensively understand the palaeoenvironments at Thyspunt in the Eastern Cape, a subregion of the Cape Floristic Region, through fire reconstruction and sediment analyses. Given the fire-dependent nature of the dominant vegetation (fynbos) in the area, there is a need for fire reconstructions and an understanding of the broader ecological dynamics within the southern Cape coastal region (SCCR). This research focused on reconstructing the fire regimes using sedimentary micro- and macrocharcoal from a sediment core (TP-1) extracted from the Langefonteinvlei wetland at Thyspunt, covering the last 5000 years. The charcoal fragments were separated into three size classes, with two falling under microcharcoal (size class 1: 10 – 100 μm and size class 2: 100 – 150 μm) and fragments greater than 150 μm representing macrocharcoal. The sedimentary profile of the TP-1 sequence was characterised based on loss on ignition and x-ray fluorescence analyses to provide better insight into the area's geological and geomorphic setting, climate history, and sediment properties. The results from the geochemical data revealed consistently high calcium carbonate composition throughout the sequence with a decrease in concentration at ~2000 cal. yr BP, 1300 cal. yr BP, and from 500 cal. yr BP to recent years. The sediments had relatively high organic content during the last 500 years. The geochemical data also indicate that the sediments are associated with shallow marine and near-shore depositional environments with a sharp increase in fine material at about 4500 cal. yr BP representing a low-energy environment. High fire activities occur around 4000 cal. yr. BP and from 1500 cal. yr BP till present, with former fire activities more likely associated with increased wildfires (driven by climate change) and the latter possibly reflecting human influence at that time. Microcharcoal fragments (size class 1: 10 – 100 μm) had higher concentrations than the other size fragments. This study underpins the importance of a multiproxy study to enrich our understanding of fire histories in Thyspunt and contributes to broader regional insights. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
Regulation of sexual harassment at the workplace in Namibia
- Authors: Kayama, Ohms Moven
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Workplace Sexual Harassments , Labour Law , Sex discrimination in employment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64695 , vital:73862
- Description: Many Namibians are driven by the need for income and economic sustainability, pushing them to seek employment and make a living for themselves. However, what appears to be just participating in economic activities can be a risky and traumatic experience for some workers. For years, many have had to balance their job responsibilities while enduring discrimination, bullying, violence, and harassment in the workplace. Sexual harassment has been a major problem in the workplace, with women being the primary targets and victims. Studies have shown that gender inequality is one of the leading causes of sexual harassment in the workplace. Within the above context, this treatise aimed at answering to what extent Namibia's legislative framework regulates sexual harassment in the workplace. Namibia's legal framework was tested against the global instruments to answer the question. It was found that Namibia's legislative framework does regulate sexual harassment. However, some several gaps were identified. First, there is ambiguity and scope of legal definitions as the current definition of sexual harassment in section 5(7)(b) of the LA is not comprehensive enough. It fails to explicitly include both "quid pro quo" and "hostile environment" sexual harassment. This ambiguity could hinder victims' ability to seek justice and the legal system to prosecute offenders effectively. Second, there is an inefficacy of reporting structures, which is a significant barrier. Victims often face unclear and inefficient procedures, contributing to underreporting and unresolved cases. Developing straightforward, accessible, and efficient reporting mechanisms is crucial. Third, the absence of comprehensive workplace policies against sexual harassment exacerbates the issue. While developing a Code of Good Practice is positive, its implementation status and effectiveness remain uncertain. Another gap relates to the protection for whistleblowers and victims, as a lack of adequate legal protection for whistleblowers and witnesses discourages reporting. Strengthening legal protections can empower more individuals to come forward. The gaps identified were developed while comparing Namibia’s legislative framework to South Africa to determine whether lessons can be learned as it was found that lessons could be learned. Further recommendations is that Namibia should establish a single OHS legislation to address workplace sexual harassment by standardising policies and procedures across various industries, improving reporting standards to measure the occurrence of sexual harassment incidents, and developing a Code of Good Practice regulating sexual harassment. Lastly, it is acknowledged that Namibia's ratification of the Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 (No. 190) is a welcomed development and shows a positive commitment in its intention to curb sexual violence in the workplace. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Kayama, Ohms Moven
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Workplace Sexual Harassments , Labour Law , Sex discrimination in employment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64695 , vital:73862
- Description: Many Namibians are driven by the need for income and economic sustainability, pushing them to seek employment and make a living for themselves. However, what appears to be just participating in economic activities can be a risky and traumatic experience for some workers. For years, many have had to balance their job responsibilities while enduring discrimination, bullying, violence, and harassment in the workplace. Sexual harassment has been a major problem in the workplace, with women being the primary targets and victims. Studies have shown that gender inequality is one of the leading causes of sexual harassment in the workplace. Within the above context, this treatise aimed at answering to what extent Namibia's legislative framework regulates sexual harassment in the workplace. Namibia's legal framework was tested against the global instruments to answer the question. It was found that Namibia's legislative framework does regulate sexual harassment. However, some several gaps were identified. First, there is ambiguity and scope of legal definitions as the current definition of sexual harassment in section 5(7)(b) of the LA is not comprehensive enough. It fails to explicitly include both "quid pro quo" and "hostile environment" sexual harassment. This ambiguity could hinder victims' ability to seek justice and the legal system to prosecute offenders effectively. Second, there is an inefficacy of reporting structures, which is a significant barrier. Victims often face unclear and inefficient procedures, contributing to underreporting and unresolved cases. Developing straightforward, accessible, and efficient reporting mechanisms is crucial. Third, the absence of comprehensive workplace policies against sexual harassment exacerbates the issue. While developing a Code of Good Practice is positive, its implementation status and effectiveness remain uncertain. Another gap relates to the protection for whistleblowers and victims, as a lack of adequate legal protection for whistleblowers and witnesses discourages reporting. Strengthening legal protections can empower more individuals to come forward. The gaps identified were developed while comparing Namibia’s legislative framework to South Africa to determine whether lessons can be learned as it was found that lessons could be learned. Further recommendations is that Namibia should establish a single OHS legislation to address workplace sexual harassment by standardising policies and procedures across various industries, improving reporting standards to measure the occurrence of sexual harassment incidents, and developing a Code of Good Practice regulating sexual harassment. Lastly, it is acknowledged that Namibia's ratification of the Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 (No. 190) is a welcomed development and shows a positive commitment in its intention to curb sexual violence in the workplace. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04